Rebecca Schaeffer was an American actress who is best known for her role in “My Sister Sam,” as well as appearances in films like “Out of Time” and “Radio Days.” Born on November 6, 1967, in Eugene, Oregon, she gained fame in the 1980s before her tragic death in 1989.
Personal and Family Life
Rebecca Schaeffer was born to Benson and Danna Schaeffer. She started modeling at just 16 years old, moving to New York City and later to Japan to pursue her career. In Los Angeles, she cohabited with her “My Sister Sam” co-star Pam Dawber and her husband Mark Harmon, which provided her a supportive environment in the competitive acting industry.
Career Highlights
Rebecca became well-known for her role as Patti Russell on the television show “My Sister Sam,” which aired in 1986. She was also a spokesperson for a charity called Thursday’s Child, aimed at helping at-risk teens. Despite her busy schedule, she always made time for her fans and frequently engaged in charity work.
Death and Legacy
Tragically, Rebecca was murdered on July 18, 1989, by an obsessed fan named Robert John Bardo, who shot her at her apartment door. Her death raised awareness about the dangers celebrities face from stalkers and led to changes in stalking laws in California, making it a felony. Her legacy continues to influence protections for public figures and highlights the significance of addressing stalking and mental health issues.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Out of Time | 1988-07-17 | Pam Wallace |
| Voyage of Terror: The Achille Lauro Affair | 1990-04-29 | Cheryl |
| Scenes from the Class Struggle in Beverly Hills | 1989-06-03 | Zandra |
| Radio Days | 1987-01-30 | Communist’s Daughter |
| The End of Innocence | 1990-12-06 | Stephanie (18-25 years old) |
| My Sister Sam | 1986-10-06 | Patti Russell |
| Amazing Stories | 1985-09-29 | Ms. Crownings |